Parton died at the age of 80 on August 25, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer.
Her death was announced by her nephew Bryan Seaver, prompting an immediate outpouring of grief from artists who knew her personally and others who grew up inspired by her work.
Among the most touching tributes came from Taylor Swift, who described Parton as a rare combination of grace, strength and generosity.
Swift said Parton encouraged people to remain true to themselves while using her life to inspire others.
Swift also highlighted Parton’s work beyond music, particularly her commitment to children’s literacy through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
Swift and Travis Kelce recently donated $2 million to the programme, and Parton had publicly acknowledged the contribution.
Beyoncé, who brought Parton’s music to a new generation through her cover of “Jolene” on Cowboy Carter, also remembered the country legend.
She described Parton as a guiding figure whose talent, determination and individuality taught generations of artists how to be themselves. The two also collaborated on songs featured on Beyoncé’s album.
For Miley Cyrus, the loss was deeply personal. Parton was her godmother and had been a close presence in her life for years. Cyrus described her as one of the purest souls and shared her heartbreak after the news of her death.
Country star Reba McEntire remembered Parton as a longtime friend, thanking her for the love and music she gave the world.
Kacey Musgraves also expressed her pain, while Maren Morris shared memories of performing with Parton.
Paul McCartney joined the tributes, recalling his first meeting with Parton in Nashville in the 1970s. He praised not only her musical ability but also her generosity and humanitarian work.
Hollywood figures also remembered her warmth. Jamie Lee Curtis thanked Parton for everything she gave the world, while her 9 to 5 co-star Lily Tomlin shared a photo of the two together with a simple expression of grief.
Octavia Spencer, Carol Burnett, Sally Field and Sarah Jessica Parker were among others who celebrated Parton’s kindness and extraordinary legacy.
From country music to Hollywood and global pop culture, the tributes have revealed the remarkable breadth of Parton’s influence.
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